More than two thirds of Americans are overweight. Aside from the general discomfort of carrying extra weight, there are numerous co-morbidities. These include arthritis, heart disease, type two diabetes, gall bladder disease, certain cancers, hypertension and strokes.
There are dozens of fad diets and nutritional supplements for weight loss. Some work in the short term, but the weight often returns. In addition, some diets can cause muscle loss, which can negatively affect metabolism as well as health.
If you want to learn an evidence based approach to weight loss, come learn about SPEED.
SPEED is an acronym standing for “Sleep, Psychological, Environmental, Exercise and Diet”. According to Jeff Thiboutot, M.S., C.N. and Matt Schoenberger, M.S., CES, authors of the book SPEED, addressing these five factors increases the chance of long term, sustainable weight loss.
Sleep is essential for weight loss. Research shows that less than 7-9 hours of sleep can adversely affect hormones, leading to weight gain. I will discuss lifestyle factors, dietary modification and supplements that can be used for sleep hygiene.
Psychological factors play an important role in the success of any weight loss program. What sort of relationship do you have with food? Do crave certain foods? Are you an emotional eater?
Environmental factors can have a significant impact on weight gain. Chemicals know as “obesogens” permeate our food chain and are found in plastic bottles/containers as well as contaminants in processed foods, including baby food! Identifying and eliminating these sources is essential for weight loss and health. In some instances, a detoxification program is necessary to rid one’s body of these chemicals and help it to function properly. This class will review the detoxification pathways and how to do an effective detox.
Exercise if done correctly, can accelerate fat loss. If done following conventional recommendations, it will cause carbohydrate cravings and compensatory overeating. Exercising less but more intensely is the key- come learn how.
Diet: Research shows that eating more of certain foods can actually promote weight loss and that the food we eat can affect specific hormones that will either turn on or off fat storage. Food allergies and sensitivities can also affect weight gain. These can be identified through a blood test, or an elimination challenge procedure I will discuss in the class.
Supplements: Some work, many don’t. This class will also give an overview of helpful supplements for weight loss as well as prescription medical foods that control neurotransmitters and can affect appetite.
Acupuncture: Does it work for weight loss? Research shows that it helps with cravings and metabolism. Interested participants can try it during the class. The points are located in the ears.
Course Information
Date: Wednesday, February 8
Time: 7:00pm to 8:00pm
Location: Fitness Forward Studio | 118 105th Ave NE | Bellevue, WA
Costs: $20
Registration: Contact Debbie at Fitness Forward | 425.466.3653.
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